Glenglassaugh Sandend

Glenglassaugh Sandend just won Whisky Advocate's Whisky of the Year by reproducing Bruichladdich's formula for the Classic Laddie and charging us all $10 more for it. In some places $20. Buy the Classic Laddie instead. Don't believe the hype

Light fruity pear, super smooth. Not harsh at all.

The nose is a little sprity, but is full of bright fruit. Apricot, tangerine, green apple, tropical fruit, then some nice maltiness. Reminds me of Irish whiskey a good bit, in particular Knappogue Castle, of which I've had both the 14 year and the 12 year Marchesi finish. The palate has all the fruit, but adds in some creamy vanilla ice cream and then slight spice toward the finish. As with the Knappogue Irish whiskies, I really enjoy this as well, and I'd give it a similar score as I gave those, 3.5-3.75. The flavors pop a little more in this, but also feels a bit younger and slightly less refined than the Knappogues.

Has a nice salty and mineral tang to complement bright fruity notes. Nose: Vanilla, Peaches, Coconuts, Almonds, Raisins, Dates, Strawberries, Pears, Cherries, Minerals, Sea Salt Palate: Bananas, Salted Caramel, Peaches, Vanilla, Coconuts, Almonds, Orange Blossoms Finish: Pears, Sea Salt, Almonds, Vanilla, Peaches, Coconuts

Tart, rich, sweet, full, smooth